Daughter's tribute to top bike journalist Kevin Ash

The eldest daughter of respected British motorcycle journalist Kevin Ash has paid a heartfelt tribute to her father.

Mr Ash died following an accident during a BMW press launch in South Africa.

He was the Daily Telegraph's motorcycling correspondent for 15 years and a columnist for Motorcycle News.

Mr Ash was fatally injured during the launch event north of the town of George, some 155 miles east of Cape Town.

Reports claim the fatal accident occurred as a group of journalists were on a two-day ride to test BMW's new R1200GS.

A statement released on his official website, Ash on Bikes, by his oldest daughter said: 'Kevin Ash passed away on January 22nd due to a motorcycle accident during a press launch in South Africa.

'The phrase “he died doing what he loved” sprang to mind but I would like to stamp that firmly out. He loved his family more and we love him.

'As his oldest daughter, I only recently started to fully realise just how much further his parenting went than most; on receiving a tearful phone call at Stanstead airport it was a natural response to immediately cancel his press launch and ride back home to teach trigonometry the night before exams.

'Everything he did was entirely for his children and his wife, and a little bit for his cat.

'My parents loved each other very much and I hope that one day we can learn to live without him.'

Mr Ash is a former assistant editor of Motorcycle News and a statement on the newspaper's website said it was 'deeply saddened' by the tragedy.

'Known for his technical authority, clarity of expression and prolific output, Kevin was also sharp-witted, great company, a devoted husband and father to his wife and three daughters and universally liked. MCN passes on our deep condolences to his family.'

Adrian Roderick, general manager for BMW Motorrad UK, said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the awful news about Kevin Ash; one of the most well-liked, experienced and respected journalists in the extremely close-knit motorcycle community.

“Losing Kevin is a tragedy which will be felt across the entire industry. He was a friend, as much as a journalist, and will be sorely missed.

“Our heartfelt thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this awful time.”